When we decorate our homes, we often pay more attention to bigger items like furniture and wall art. Although these pieces can make a significant impact on the appearance of a space, they are not the only factors that affect the overall style. The smaller details that we often overlook can actually enhance the design of our homes.
This is especially true when it comes to the bathroom and kitchen, where in addition to providing functionality, minor accents and tweaks can completely transform the look of an otherwise mundane space. One such example is the installation of modern and practical mixer basin taps, with subtle yet stylish designs designed to inspire and delight.
Which Mixer Tap Is Best?
In a nutshell, basin mixers consist of a single spout that allows you to control the flow of hot and cold water by pushing down or turning the lever. But even this singular fixture comes in several different variations, so let’s explore the options:
Twinner
The first one on the list is essentially two separate taps, one for hot and one for cold water, that are attached to a single sprout. You still get the convenience of a single spout, but retaining the two separate levers allows for more precise temperature control. They’re both connected to the same water supply, meaning hot and cold water can be mixed in the spout itself.
Single-Lever
A more contemporary choice, these mixer taps feature a single lever for hot and cold water. Both flow through the same valve, blending within the spout. Thanks to a pressure-balancing cartridge, this mixer tap can sense when more water is needed and automatically adjusts the temperature accordingly. You turn the lever to select and adjust the desired flow and temperature, making it one of the easiest and most convenient options.
Pull-Out
You know all those times when you needed to get some water to a strategically placed container that just wouldn’t fit under the tap? Or maybe you needed to hose down a particular area of your sink so you resort to using a soaked sponge or cloth to get the job done? While this workaround might be necessary in the short run, it’s not ideal.
This is why pull-out mixers are so great – they come with a flexible hose that serves the same purpose as a watering can. This hose is attached to the spout and allows you to direct the water flow in whatever direction needs it without having to deal with awkward angles or spillage.
Wall-Mounted
As the name suggests, wall-mounted mixer basin taps are attached to the wall, meaning the spout is installed in a slightly higher position than floor-mounted ones. This design is an inherently stylish option that also makes a great space-saver, especially in small bathrooms and kitchens. Their mode of operation is quite similar too, as they tend to rely on a single valve that’s usually operated with a push button or handle.
How Do You Choose an Appropriate Basin Mixer?
Aside from the specifications in terms of design and functionality, all models share a few common features that may determine their appropriateness for your home. As such, some of the main factors that you should consider when selecting a mixer tap are:
Material
The way a mixer tap looks is largely determined by the material it’s made of, which in turn affects its durability and price. Common choices include stainless steel, brass, and chrome-plated zinc alloy. The first option is the most resistant, while the other two tend to be cheaper and easier to clean. Brass in particular is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to achieve an antique-inspired look but also want the fuss-free maintenance of a modern fixture.
Spout Shape
Mixer taps typically feature two distinct spout shapes – the traditional swan-neck curved design and a more modern square one. While both offer great functionality, the former is often seen as the more classic choice, while the latter is more contemporary and minimal. Of course, this also depends on the overall design theme that you’re trying to achieve in your bathroom or kitchen.
If you’re going for a more classic look, then you might want to opt for the curved design. It can tie up the entire look of your space, providing just the right amount of visual interest. On the other hand, if you’re looking to create an edgy and unconventional atmosphere, then you should look into the square spouts, especially since they usually come with a range of innovative features.
Water Pressure and Installation Requirements
The water pressure of your home’s plumbing system determines the type of tap you can use. Low water pressure requires a mixer tap with an aerator, while high water pressure calls for one without it. This is because the former acts as a filter to reduce the amount of water flow and consequently, the pressure. The latter, on the other hand, is designed to maximise water flow but this can result in a higher water bill.
Likewise, some taps require extra installation components to work properly, such as a flexible hose. When considering your options, be sure to check what installation requirements each product has so you can make an informed decision.
